Easy Banana and Cinnamon Muffins Recipe | No Chocolate Needed
Who doesn’t love a freshly baked muffin? These banana and cinnamon muffins are not only a delightful way to use up over-ripe bananas, but they are also bursting with warm, cozy cinnamon flavor. This recipe skips the chocolate in favor of letting the banana shine. Plus, it’s a hit with the kids—my nine-year-old son gave it his stamp of approval! If you’re looking for a muffin recipe that’s easy to make and packs a flavor punch, this one is for you.
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The Best Banana and Cinnamon Muffins
When it comes to muffins, banana and cinnamon are a match made in heaven. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with the earthy warmth of cinnamon, creating a muffin that’s moist, flavorful, and comforting. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a quick dessert. Plus, they are super simple to whip up!
Notes on Ingredients
- Ripe Bananas: The key to these muffins is using over-ripe bananas. The more brown and spotty, the better! They add natural sweetness and moisture to the batter.
- Cinnamon: Not only in the batter, but also sprinkled on top with demerara sugar for a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- Butter vs. Oil: This recipe calls for melted unsalted butter, which adds a rich flavor. You could substitute with oil, but the butter gives these muffins a deeper taste.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a slight caramel flavor that complements the bananas and cinnamon. Soft light brown sugar works best, but dark brown sugar can also be used for a richer taste.
How to Make Banana and Cinnamon Muffins
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (170°C for fan ovens) or gas mark 3.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until well blended. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Fill the Muffin Cases: Line a muffin tin with paper cases. Fill each case two-thirds full with the batter, then sprinkle the tops with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake: Place the muffins in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Banana and Cinnamon Muffins
These muffins are best enjoyed slightly warm, straight out of the oven, but they also make a fantastic snack at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat, or pack them into lunchboxes for a delicious, kid-friendly snack. The crunchy cinnamon topping adds a lovely texture, contrasting beautifully with the soft, banana-packed center.
How to Store Banana and Cinnamon Muffins
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week, though the crunchy topping may soften slightly. For even longer storage, freeze the muffins in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
FAQs About Banana and Cinnamon Muffins
Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, these muffins freeze beautifully. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat for a quick snack.
What can I use instead of cinnamon?
If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, try nutmeg or even a mix of allspice for a different flavor twist.
Can I add chocolate?
Of course! While this recipe is all about the banana and cinnamon, adding chocolate chips or chunks would be a delicious addition.
The Best Banana and Cinnamon Muffins
Ingredients
- 175 g plain flour
- 2 tsps baking powder
- half a tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 2 tsps ground cinnamon
- 125 g unsalted butter melted
- 150 g soft light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 small ripe bananas mashed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
FOR THE CRUNCHY TOPPING
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsps demerera sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180 degs C/170 degs C fan/gas mark 3
- Put the flour, baking powder, bicarb and cinnamon into a medium sized bowl and combine well.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar, and beat until blended. Beat in the eggs one at a time and then the mashed bananas and vanilla.
- Add the flour mixture and stir well.
- Line a muffin tin with paper cases and fill each case with the mixture, until about two-thirds full, and sprinkle the tops with the sugary cinnamon.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean when inserted. Leave to cool in the tin for a few minutes before turning out on to a wire rack. Enjoy!